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Francis to lead ‘fresh start’ in Carolina; Muller’s future uncertain

Francis

Ron Francis promised today to review “every aspect” of a Carolina Hurricanes organization that’s missed the playoffs in each of the past five seasons.

The 51-year-old Hall of Famer has been promoted to executive vice president and general manager of the ‘Canes, with Jim Rutherford remaining as president after stepping down as the GM. In addition, Brian Tatum will become an assistant GM, and Mike Vellucci has been hired as assistant GM and director of hockey operations

Francis called today’s moves a “fresh start” for the club; however, he was predictably short on specifics. The future of head coach Kirk Muller remains up in the air, with Francis saying only he’d make a decision in the “next little bit.”

The “consistency aspect” of the Hurricanes was one area of concern that Francis did highlight. Similarly, he hinted the team’s willingness to battle wasn’t where he’d like to see it.

Said Francis in an interview with the club’s website: “I want guys who love to compete, guys that want to come to the rink each and every day, whether it’s a practice or a game, whether they are a little banged up or healthy, and every time they stop onto the ice, they’re going to give me all they have, because I think that’s the only way, as a team, you get to be successful: everybody is buying in and competing hard for each other. When the logo on the front of the jersey becomes more important than the name on the back, I think you have a successful team.”

Captain Eric Staal and goalie Cam Ward have both heard their names come up in trade rumors, but Francis wasn’t asked to comment on that speculation.

Related: Staal, Ward say they want to stay in Carolina